Vitamin C in skin care applications: An overview

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant molecule that can be used topically to reduce the changes associated with photoageing. It can also be used for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. Because it is unstable and difficult to deliver into the dermis in the optimum dosage, research is being directed to finding stable compounds and newer methods of delivery (lipid-based micro and nano carrier systems) of vitamin C into the dermis.

Vitamin C (Figure 1) is a naturally occurring antioxidant.1,2 Most plants and animals are able to acquire it in vivo from glucose (Figure 2 & 3). However, humans and certain vertebrates lack the L-glucono-gamma lactone oxidase enzyme required to do this and must instead acquire synthesise vitamin C from natural sources such as citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, strawberries, papaya and broccoli.3,4

Traditionally, vitamin C-rich foods like lemons were carried by sailors on long journeys to avoid scurvy. In 1937, Dr Albert Szent Goyrgi was awarded the Nobel Prize for his work in isolating the vitamin C molecule from red peppers and identifying its role in scurvy.4